As we consider the year gone by, a selection of remarkable long-form pieces stands out. Such narratives probe complex themes from political machinations and historical revelations to deeply human journeys.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on autocratic rule. While many of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the country, he still sell millions of books. This poses a pertinent query: Has the author turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his sole route out of prison was to join the regime forces. After fourteen long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may still cost him his life.
The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely re-writing the narrative of our species. However, some scholars was persuaded. The ensuing bitter argument has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the shocking breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Curious Record on Human Rights
Numerous voters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the UK's commitment to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks thorny queries: Is this person truly reformed, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
A Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging moments, families depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Iconic Museum Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, strained finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his teachings shape the uppermost echelons of government.
The British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become uneasy.
The Small Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An extremely rich country has become a major actor on the international scene, working to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious role?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a particular former US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Global Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the exact story of the procedures remains partially unclear.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed vast sums of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the reality that their islands may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his life might turn around. That hope was sadly wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he may possess the key to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
